Uncovering the Root Causes of Acne: Going Beyond Common Triggers

When it comes to acne, your genetics play a huge role, more then you realize.

Commonly people talk about the acne triggers more than the actual root cause of acne. So, let’s get into it, your genes determine how your body produces skin cells, normally our bodies produce one layer of skin cells daily, we have learned acne prone individuals produce up to 5 layers of skin cells daily. The excess skin cells make it difficult for the acne prone skin to shed, which is called “Retention hyperkeratosis '‘The skin cells stick together, clog the follicle (pore) not allowing oxygen to enter the pore. If there are the bacteria present, the lack of oxygen allows the bacteria to thrive. With the buildup of skin cells, sebum (oil) and bacteria start spilling over to the surrounding pores bringing up to the surface what we call a pustule or papule depending on the bacteria presence. This whole process takes between 30-90 days to come to the surface.

So, what can we do to treat acne?

We focus on nourishing your skin, keep your skin barrier functional, as well as introduce exfoliating ingredients to assists your skin removing excess skin cells to keep them from sticking and becoming trapped. When it comes to acne triggers, these are foods, habits or ingredients that cause an increase of skin cells, over production of oil or cause inflammation. These things do not cause acne to form per se, but can “trigger” the skin to produce more skin cells, oil, etc. Example, it’s like already having a house fire and throwing gasoline on it. Every situation is unique, so not every and all the common acne triggers might be your trigger. The best way to find out yours is to start with elimination. Once you have your acne breakouts under control, you could start bringing one possible trigger back in, for instance resume eating dairy. If you notice an increase in acne breakouts after eating dairy, then you know. Then you decide what to do with that knowledge.

Want one on one acne coaching?

I would love to help you on your skin clearing journey! If your local to Toledo, Ohio start by scheduling an acne consultation with me to see if my acne program is a great fit for you, there is no obligation to start at the appointment. I am always available to answer any questions you may have prior to scheduling. I look forward to meeting you!